It’s an inevitable question. At a work party, a family gathering, or a date, this question can come up, especially if people are used to seeing you join in the drinking.
Most people recovering from addiction feel terribly on-the-spot with this question. How much is too much to share? Often, we feel awkward and embarrassed. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Don’t be caught off guard. Be ready to answer. Here are 6 ways to do so:
“I’m on a strict diet.”
Once you say it, you’ll probably learn that you’re not the only one. Today, millions of people are trying out diets that exclude anything from gluten to salt. Most every healthy-eating diet cuts alcohol out first thing. You can explain that you’re trying the diet in order to support a friend who has health troubles, in order to sleep better, or to reach your fitness goals.
“It just doesn’t mix well with my meds.”
So many medications have contraindications with alcohol. This statement doesn’t have to imply that you have a severe, worrisome condition. Many medications for allergies, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pain, and sleep problems come with a warning label to avoid alcohol while on the medication.
“I’m driving.”
Way to go, designated driver! It’s easy to make this the truth, too, by volunteering to be the driver at a social activity. It will give you yet another reason to stay sober through the night.
“I’ve got an early morning.”
Everyone knows that if you have important things to do in the morning, drinking is the worst thing that you can do to yourself the night before. All you have to do is say that your mornings are too rough after drinking for you to indulge tonight.
“I promised my loved one.”
While this refers the adverse effects of your drinking habits, it also doesn’t brand you as an addict, if that’s something that you want to shy away from. However, it implies that you’re practicing sobriety because you value other things more… things like your relationships. And that’s true, isn’t it? It’s hard for anyone to argue with this statement because it’s a declaration of dedication to the things that are really important in life.
“I’m in addiction recovery.”
That’s right, the straight-up truth. It can be scary coming out and telling people that you struggle with addiction. This is mainly because we’re afraid what kind of effect it will have. Will people avoid eye contact? Will things be irreparably awkward from here on out? Well, if those are the reasons that you’re avoiding sharing, then they might also be the very reasons that you SHOULD share. Help break the stigma of addiction by being open and honest with people, and letting them get to know someone who’s been there. It won’t take long for them to realize that you’re still the same person.